Saturday, November 1, 2025

“Spookiz” Returns With a New Season After Five Long Years!

After a long five-year wait, the fan-favorite 3DCG animation “Spookiz” is finally back with a brand-new season, bringing fresh adventures, laughter, and excitement for fans around the world. The first episode premiered on October 31, marking a thrilling comeback for the globally beloved series.

“Spookiz” has built a massive international following with its fun, non-verbal storytelling and charming cast of quirky monsters. The series, owned by Sony Music Labels Inc., has amassed an impressive 6.2 million subscribers and over 3.2 billion total views on its official YouTube channel as of October 30. With short, 1–3 minute episodes, “Spookiz” has captured the hearts of audiences across the United States, Asia, Latin America, and Europe through its universal humor and engaging animation.

In this long-awaited new season, the storyline takes an exciting turn. Previously, the “Spookiz” characters—Cula the boastful Dracula, Frankie the food-loving Frankenstein, Kebi the unpredictable Goblin, Kongkong the mischievous Chinese Ghost, and Zizi the cheerful Zombie—lived secretly within the walls of an elementary school, hiding from humans. Now, they find themselves on a new journey after being hunted by a vengeful monster hunter.

The prologue teases their quest to seek guidance from an ancient monster named Tengu, who will help them awaken their true powers and discover what it really means to be “real monsters.” Episode 1 introduces a dramatic beginning as Cula is found washed up on the shore, while Kebi appears in his infant form—setting the stage for an adventure full of mystery, growth, and humor.

Fans can look forward to new episodes being released every two weeks on Fridays at 8 AM ET, continuing the legacy of laughter and creativity that “Spookiz” is known for.

To catch the latest episode, “Spookiz -Monsters Awakening-,” visit YouTube, and follow the official “Spookiz” social media channels on Instagram, TikTok, X, and Facebook.

Get ready to reunite with Cula, Frankie, Kebi, Kongkong, and Zizi as they return to bring spooky fun and heartwarming adventures to audiences worldwide once again!

Friday, October 31, 2025

Freen Sarocha Shines in Pop Pink with the New Vivo V60 Lite

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Thai actress Freen Sarocha recently captured the attention of fans and tech lovers alike as she showcased the new Vivo V60 Lite in Pop Pink on Instagram. Perfectly complementing her chic OOTD, Freen described the smartphone as “a total dream,” praising its stylish design and powerful performance.

“It’s pretty and powerful! With its 6500mAh BlueVolt Battery + 90W FlashCharge, I’m powered for all-day, nonstop fun,” Freen wrote in her caption, expressing love to her Filipino GirlFreens—the loyal fanbase that continues to support her in the Philippines.

The Vivo V60 Lite Pop Pink isn’t just about aesthetics. Beneath its eye-catching design lies a powerhouse built for gaming and entertainment. It runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 7360-Turbo processor, paired with 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. This combination ensures smooth gameplay, efficient multitasking, and effortless performance even during long hours of use.

Gamers and entertainment enthusiasts can also enjoy stereo speakers that deliver up to 400% volume, along with Bypass Charging technology that keeps the device cool during extended play sessions. The Ultra Game Mode enhances the overall experience, immersing players in vibrant sound and responsive gameplay.

Powering all these features is Vivo’s 6500mAh BlueVolt Battery and 90W FlashCharge technology, ensuring the phone stays energized for all-day fun—just like Freen’s lively lifestyle.

Adding more excitement for fans, Girlfreen PH—Freen’s official fan club in the Philippines—is hosting a Vivo V60 Lite giveaway. Two lucky winners will have the chance to take home their very own Vivo V60 Lite.

To join, participants must get 10 people to follow Freen on Instagram (@srchafreen). Each must like and share Freen’s Vivo post as a public Instagram story, tagging @srchafreen and @vivo_philippines. Entries must be submitted through the official entry form before November 8, 2025, with winners to be announced on November 11, 2025.

Fans across the country are already joining the fun, sharing Freen’s post, and celebrating the perfect blend of beauty, power, and entertainment embodied by the Pop Pink Vivo V60 Lite.

Aside from Pop Pink, the Vivo V60 Lite is also available in Titanium Blue and Elegant Black. The smartphone is now available nationwide in Vivo concept stores, kiosks, and authorized dealers for as low as Php 14,999, and online via the official Vivo website.

SHDA Pushes for Recalibrated, People-Centered, and Inclusive Housing Strategies at the 33rd National Developers Convention

Manila, Philippines – As the Philippines observed the National Shelter Month in October, the Subdivision and Housing Developers Association (SHDA) advanced a recalibrated, people-centered approach to housing, supported the expansion of the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program (4PH), and adopted convention resolutions during the 33rd SHDA National Developers Convention held on October 9–10, 2025, at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel. Themed “Recalibrate: Upgrading Housing Strategies for a Better Tomorrow,” the event underscored the private sector’s crucial role in creating inclusive and sustainable communities in partnership with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).

The two-day convention gathered over 400 key stakeholders, from the government sector, real estate developers, financial institutions, and policy experts, to refine strategies for delivering affordable, inclusive, and resilient homes under the 4PH program. Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) Vice President Dr. Marife Ballesteros shared insights on demographic shifts and housing trends. At the same time, Pag-IBIG Fund CEO Ms. Marilene Acosta provided updates on financing and programs that directly support 4PH’s nationwide rollout.

SHDA National President Engr. Francis Richmond Villegas emphasized that collaborative reforms are key to achieving the administration’s housing goals. “Through the 4PH program, we see unprecedented opportunities for developers to help deliver more homes, more efficiently, and with greater social impact,” he shared.

SHDA 2025 National Convention Chairperson Ms. Renelyn Tan-Castillejos highlighted the importance of synergy and of bringing together key stakeholders to address the country's housing needs. “The role that the real estate sector plays in nation building is vital not only through the construction of homes but more importantly in the creation of safe and livable communities using sustainable technologies,” she said.

The panel discussions centered on policy reforms aligned with DHSUD’s 8-Point Housing Agenda, particularly advancing the government’s flagship 4PH initiative, highlighting the importance of community when building housing developments, and integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in development projects.
The government echoed the call for stronger collaboration. In her keynote message, DHSUD Senior Undersecretary Atty. Sharon Faith Paquiz emphasized, “Collaboration allows us to continuously enhance our programs and initiatives for the Philippine housing sector. Moving forward, let us inspire more partnerships, with the public and private sectors working hand in hand to build a future where every Filipino has access to safe, affordable, and resilient housing through our united efforts.”

Among the highlights of this year’s convention were the panel on women leaders in real estate and the pivotal role of developers in advancing the ESG agenda. Speakers and panelists emphasized that people-centered and inclusive leadership is essential to driving transformation in the housing sector, from policymaking to on-the-ground development practices. As the housing sector embraces global best practices, SHDA urged the industry to strengthen collaboration in building climate-resilient, livable, and inclusive communities. Discussions also explored how ESG integration could drive long-term value creation while balancing sustainability and affordability for Filipino homebuyers.

The convention also reaffirmed SHDA’s policy priorities under its “Essential Few” agenda, which continues to guide the association’s housing reform advocacy. These priorities include the expansion of the 4PH program, calling for the continued rollout of the administration’s flagship housing initiative through stronger public-private collaboration; streamlined permits and one-stop shops to digitalize and simplify permitting processes; and institutionalized housing incentives that encourage more developers to participate in affordable housing production. These priorities aim to modernize systems, lower costs, and accelerate housing delivery, ensuring that more Filipino families can access affordable and sustainable homes.

The convention also emphasized the power of cross-industry partnerships to reduce production costs, unlock financing innovation, and improve housing accessibility. To further drive housing innovation, SHDA underscored that private developers play a vital role in aligning national goals with practical, scalable, and community-based solutions that meet the evolving needs of Filipino families.

In his message, SHDA National Chairman Ar. Leonardo Dayao Jr. highlighted the importance of fostering empathy and sustainability in policy direction. “Our focus on people-centered development ensures that housing reform is not only about infrastructure but also about building communities that uplift the quality of life,” he said.

SHDA Corporate Secretary Atty. Marianne Lina-Cruz underscored the role of the convention resolutions in reinforcing private-public synergy, saying, “These resolutions reflect the shared vision of government and industry partners to make sustainable housing accessible to every Filipino family.”

The 33rd SHDA-DHSUD National Developers Convention was made possible through the support of sponsors and partners including Citihomes Builder and Development, Inc. (CBDI), 8990 Housing Development Corporation, Pag-IBIG Fund (HDMF), SM Development Corporation (SMDC), Republic Cement and Services Inc., PCON International Corp (EcoBloc), Amaia Land Corporation, Avida Land Corporation, Bank of the Philippines Islands (BPI) Housing Loan, Banco De Oro (BDO), Dutch Boy (Boysen), Community Property Managers Group Inc., Davies Paints Philippines Incorporated, Hocheng Philippines Corporation (HCG), Philippine Guarantee Corporation (PHILGUARANTEE), Phinma Property Holdings Corporation, Property Company of Friends, Inc., Lynville Land Development Corporation, Phirst Park Homes Inc., Home Mavericks Inc., Red Oak Properties, Inc., R.J. Lhinet Development Corporation, United Steel Technology (SteelTech) International Corp., Moon Rabbit Ventures Inc. (UWI), Wee Community Developers, Inc., World Home Depot, Globe, Cadence Property Development Corporation (CPDC), Cathay Land, Inc. (South Forbes), Hellenes Land Inc., Convergence Realty and Development Corporation, Homemark, Inc., Masaito Development Corporation (MDC), Precast and Construction Solutions, P.A. Alvarez Properties, Prominence Properties, Inc., Raemulan Lands Incorporated, RCD Land Inc., RK Premier Corp., Surewell Equities Inc., and Philippine Bank of Communications (PBCOM).

SHDA reaffirmed its commitment to continuing to work closely with DHSUD and other key shelter agencies to fast-track housing reform and promote human-centered, sustainable communities. The association continues to lead policy dialogue and partnership-building efforts toward a housing ecosystem that empowers Filipino families and supports inclusive national development.

Globe One App Now Features Direct Link to Kaagapay Donations Portal

Globe has further strengthened its commitment to digital inclusion and social good by integrating the Kaagapay Donations Portal into the Globe One app. Reflecting Alagang Globe in action, the new feature allows users to seamlessly access the web-based portal, making it easier to extend support directly to accredited social welfare and development agencies (SWDAs), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) disaster relief operations, and DSWD Centers and Residential Care Facilities through cash and in-kind donations.

Through the Kaagapay Donations Portal, donors can contribute to non-stock, non-profit organizations that deliver essential services to vulnerable groups, including children and youth, the elderly, persons with disabilities, women, and communities affected by calamities. The portal currently connects donors to over 900 accredited SWDAs nationwide, each playing a vital role in providing social services such as child care, elderly assistance, rehabilitation, livelihood, and community development programs.

The portal also connects donors to DSWD Disaster Relief Operations, including ongoing response efforts for typhoon Mirasol, Nando, and Opong, and the most recent 6.9 magnitude earthquake in Cebu. The DSWD Disaster Response Management Group continues to deliver humanitarian aid and strengthen preparedness measures, ensuring the availability of food and non-food items for families affected by disasters. Support also extends to the National Resource Operations Center (NROC), the central hub that manages all in-kind donations and relief goods received by the agency for nationwide distribution. For cash donations, contributions may be facilitated through Landbank, and e-wallets such as GCash, while in-kind donations may be sent to chosen beneficiaries through accredited courier services.

“We thank Globe Telecom for its steadfast commitment to supporting the government’s efforts in promoting a culture of giving and volunteerism,”
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian said. “Through the integration of the Kaagapay Donations Portal in the GlobeOne App, Globe has provided Filipinos with a simple and convenient platform to extend assistance where it is needed the most. This partnership exemplifies the spirit of shared responsibility and compassion that drives our collective pursuit of inclusive public service.”

Users can also choose to support DSWD Centers and Residential Care Facilities, such as the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center (AVRC III), which provides livelihood and rehabilitation services for persons with disabilities. AVRC III enables persons with disabilities through vocational guidance, counseling, and training programs. Another facility is the Bahay Silungan Community Center, located in Quezon City, which delivers care and services to displaced individuals, families, and groups coping with difficult life circumstances.

“By embedding the Kaagapay Donations Portal in the Globe One app, we are providing Filipinos with a simple and convenient way to show care where it is needed most,” said Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer, Globe. “This initiative underscores Globe’s role as a digital enabler for social good, helping strengthen communities and supporting the country’s most vulnerable sectors.”

“At Globe, we believe that technology should not only connect people digitally, but also bring communities closer in compassion and purpose. By integrating the Kaagapay Donations Portal into the Globe One app, we’re making it simpler for Filipinos to channel their generosity toward causes that uplift lives and strengthen social welfare systems,” Globe Chief Commercial Officer Darius Delgado said.

To access the Kaagapay Donations Portal, go through the GlobeOne app, click the Essentials button, then select Kaagapay Donations.

Globe customers can also support NGO partners using the Globe One app through the following:

1. For Globe Prepaid customers: Sign up for GoGIVE for free under Check These Out! to automatically donate to your chosen advocacy with the data you use.

2. For all Globe customers: navigate to the Rewards button, and search for NGO partners you would like to donate your points to.

Anko Celebrates Its First Birthday with a Festive Holiday Celebration in Manila

Manila, Philippines — This holiday season, Australia’s beloved home and lifestyle brand Anko is spreading cheer and creativity with thoughtful, affordable gifting ideas designed to spark joy in every home. From cozy home décor to playful trinkets and beauty essentials, Anko remains the go-to destination for gifts that warm hearts without breaking budgets.

And this year, there’s even more to celebrate as Anko turns one! On November 7, 2025, shoppers are invited to join the anniversary festivities at the Palm Drive Activity Center, Ayala Malls Glorietta 2, for a fun-filled day of activities, immersive gifting zones, and interactive experiences—highlighted by a special appearance from brand ambassador and actress Anne Curtis.

Visitors can join the celebration simply by signing up for the Anko Club or presenting their membership ID upon entry. Inside, they’ll be greeted with festive photo backdrops and hands-on gifting experiences. Shoppers who spend ₱1,000 and above will unlock exclusive perks and surprises as part of Anko’s special birthday and holiday treats.

The celebration extends across the weekend with creative workshops in Anko stores at TriNoma, Alabang Town Center, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay. Guests can enjoy sessions on gift wrapping, calligraphy, embroidery, and more—perfect for adding a personal touch to every present.


For gift inspiration, Anko offers curated picks for every personality. For her, the Naughty or Nice Eye Mask and Lip Balms are perfect for self-care moments, while for him, the 3D Gingerbread Mug and Santa Hat Chair Cover bring fun and function to his space. Kids will love playful finds like the Marble Race Track Game and Kawaii Squishy Bun, while home lovers can fill their spaces with warmth through Globe Candles and Santa Baskets.

From beauty enthusiasts to pet lovers and practical gifters, Anko’s wide range of items—including the Compact Espresso Machine and 3.75L Air Fryer—offers something special for everyone.

Anko’s first birthday is more than a milestone—it’s a celebration of meaningful giving and simple joy. Join the festivities, sign up for the Anko Club via www.anko.com/anko-club, and follow @anko_philippines on Instagram and TikTok for holiday inspiration that lasts all year round.